The Way to a Memorable Burger Is Through the Patty

Burgers May Be a Ubiquitous Summer Staple, but They Don't Have to Be Predictable

By

Cheryl Lu-Lien Tan

July 2, 2014 6:55 p.m. ET

Burgers may be a ubiquitous summer staple, but that doesn't mean they have to be predictable. "It's really an opportunity for a chef to show some style and creativity," says Kevin Hickey, executive chef and partner of Bottlefork restaurant in Chicago.

Mr. Hickey, who has friends over for cookouts in his backyard once or twice a month in the summer, says his first focus in creating a memorable burger is the patty. "I'm all for creativity and adventuresome creations, but the most important part about a...